RIVERS ECONOMY
The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas, has emphasized that the completion of the Trans-Kalabari Road will significantly boost the Rivers economy by improving connectivity and easing socioeconomic difficulties for riverine communities.
Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas made this statement on Monday during an inspection tour of the ongoing Trans-Kalabari Road Project in Rumuolumeni Community and the Permanent Secretaries’ Quarters in Rumuokwurushi Community, both in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
He stressed the importance of completing these projects, particularly the Trans-Kalabari Road, highlighting its potential to enhance trade, transportation, and overall economic activities in Rivers State. He noted that the project would not only benefit the state but also contribute to national development.
“We are also very much aware of the very difficult, challenging terrain around here, in terms of communication and connecting between communities,” Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas stated. “This project, when completed, I think, will boost the socio-economic life of the state and the nation as a whole.”
The Trans-Kalabari Road is seen as a vital infrastructure project that will link riverine communities to urban centers, providing them with better access to markets, healthcare, and education. For years, residents of these areas have faced difficulties due to poor transportation networks, which have hindered economic growth and development.
Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas urged the contractors handling the project to adhere strictly to the agreed timelines, assuring them that the state government has fulfilled its financial commitments to ensure smooth progress.
“We are hoping and imploring the contractors to make sure they keep to the timelines. I think the state government has been able to meet up with its own obligation in terms of making available resources for them. So we are counting on them to keep to the completion time,” he said.
Apart from the Trans-Kalabari Road, the Administrator also visited the Civil Servants’ Quarters designated for Permanent Secretaries in Rumuokwurushi. During his visit, he acknowledged the housing challenges faced by civil servants and the need to provide them with decent accommodations to enhance their productivity.
“I have civil servants who have challenges with their accommodation. We have been out there to see how far the project is going, and I think I was also assured that the accommodation will be delivered on time so that those who require them will be able to settle down to do their work,” he stated.
The provision of adequate housing for government workers has been a priority in many states, as it directly impacts efficiency in public service. The ongoing project, when completed, is expected to provide comfortable housing for permanent secretaries, ensuring they have a conducive environment to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas reaffirmed his commitment to fostering peace and development in Rivers State, thereby boosting Rivers economy. He assured residents that his administration is focused on delivering projects that will improve their quality of life.
“My role is to steer the process of building a peaceful state, and in the end, Rivers people will remain the greatest beneficiaries,” he said.
With the completion of the Trans-Kalabari Road, residents of the affected communities can look forward to better economic opportunities, improved social services, and enhanced transportation networks. The project is expected to unlock the the rivers economy and economic potential of the riverine areas, making it easier for businesses to thrive and for people to move goods and services efficiently.
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